What does non-commissioned mean? Do these officers go through officer academy like ordinary officers? And why do some analysts say that having a strong NCO class is essential to a well-functioning army (i.e. what can they do that a normal officer can’t?)
Thanks in advance!
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From an episode of *Hornblower:* “The Petty Officer’s job is not to do the task — it’s to see the task is done.”
Watch *Band of Brothers* to see how WWII Army responsibilities and authority developed and were assigned.
Speaking very generally, the Officers are assigned a mission and various resources (people, equipment) to perform that mission. The mission may be to operate a supply depot involving hundreds of people and thousands of tons of stuff. The mission may be to occupy a hill top and hold it against enemy action. Obviously, one Officer cannot do this alone, and has subordinates to complete the many tasks involved.
Here’s where the division occurs — the Officers are concerned with the Goal, the NCOs are concerned with the Method of achieving that goal. A good Officer will give clear goals to the NCOs. The NCOs will train the unit personnel on how to reach that goal — weapons training, medical, cammo, transportation, and more. In turn, the NCO tasks the officer to get the material needed for the training.
Once ready and in the field, now the Officer directs the general situation (take that hill) and specifies methods (tactics) to be used (flanking, mortar fire, coordination with other units). The NCOs then act with their teams to carry out the overall plan. The NCOs are on the front line and can react to local situations. The Officers are a bit further back, seeing a wider view (enemy approaching our left flank!) and give orders accordingly.
You trust your NCOs to lead you through situations you can handle (training, resources). You trust your Officers to put you in situations that are worthwhile to risk your life (tactics serving a strategy).
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